Kim Novick, a professor at the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, has been named the new director of the Environment, Society, and Sustainability Institute.
An internationally recognized expert in micrometeorology, ecosystem ecology, and climate change mitigation, Novick steps into the role to lead ESSI’s mission to advance interdisciplinary research and actionable solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
“Kim Novick is an exceptional scholar and a dedicated mentor whose vision aligns perfectly with the core mission of the O'Neill School,” said David Audretsch, interim dean of the O’Neill School. “Her leadership will elevate ESSI’s role as a collaborative hub, translating cutting-edge research into real-world policy and sustainability strategies.”
Novick, who has been a faculty member at the O’Neill School since 2012, brings a wealth of research experience and leadership to the institute. Her work primarily focuses on interactions among land, atmosphere, and climate, with particular emphasis on how natural and working lands can be managed to absorb carbon and build resilience to extreme weather events.
“I’m excited to lead ESSI at a time when some of the most important environmental questions demand new ways of thinking across disciplines,” Novick said. “The institute creates opportunities to bring together researchers and students with different perspectives and expertise to ask ambitious questions that no single discipline can answer on its own. I look forward to building on ESSI’s strengths, creating new opportunities for students to learn through interdisciplinary research, and fostering collaborations that inspire new ideas and discoveries.”
As director of ESSI, Novick will oversee the institute’s research initiatives, foster interdisciplinary partnerships across academic disciplines, and deepen engagements with policymakers, community leaders, and environmental practitioners.
To learn more about the Environment, Society, and Sustainability Institute and its ongoing initiatives, visit the ESSI website.